Five Things To Do In Venice

We always say "smaller ships mean better parking". Truer words were never spoken! Azamara ships dock at the closest berth to the center of Venice, the San Basilio Berth. It's only 25 minutes walking distance to St. Mark's Square, and you will want to walk. Venice is one place you'll be happy to get lost in. Here are five things to do while you explore one of the greatest cities Europe has to offer - whether it is your first time visiting, or your fifth.

1. Wander

On the way to or from San Basilio Cruise Terminal to St. Mark's Square, allow a bit of extra time for exploring the many shops along the way. There are lovely boutiques, cafes, and wine shops to visit along the Rio de San Trovaso. As you wander, you'll find wonderful jewelry stores, souvenir shops, silk fabric stores, and mask shops. Film buffs might enjoy visiting Ca'Macana. This authentic mask workshop created the masks for the movie Eyes Wide Shut.

2 St. Mark's Square

Piazza San Marco is one of Venice's most famous tourist destinations. There's so much to see, returning visitors to Venice will still want to pay it a visit.

St. Mark's Basilica

The basilica is the most famous of Venice's churches and a stunning example of Italo-Byzantine architecture. Thanks to its opulent design, gold ground mosaics, and status as a symbol of Venetian wealth and power, it has been nicknamed Chiesa d'Oro (Church of Gold) since the 11th century. If it's your first time in Venice, visiting the cathedral is a must.

Museo Correr

The sprawling Museo Correr houses ancient maps, statues, books, and art. The ballrooms are stunning, and visitors will appreciate the insight the museum provides into the history of Venice. If you've already been to the Basilica and Doge's Palace, revisit St. Mark's Square to spend time in the museum.

This bell tower is one of Venice's most recognizable landmarks. Ascend the tower, and you'll be rewarded with incredible views of the city.

3. Travel Venice's Canals

There are many ways to experience Venice's incredible canals. To explore the Grand Canal, take a vaparetto. Catch the #1 vaparetto near the train station, and enjoy a leisurely 45-minute ride to Piazza San Marco.

In the evening, opt for something a bit more romantic. Through our Cruise Global, Nights Local shore excursion program, arrange a sunset gondola ride for you and your loved one. Music from a singer and accordionist will drift through the air as you soak in the atmosphere of one of the world's most romantic cities.

4. Visit the Nearby Islands of Murano and Burano

A visit to these quiet islands is the perfect excursion for someone who has been to Venice many times. Visit a glass factory in Murano, an island known for producing stunning, colorful glass for jewelry, lamps, chandeliers, and more. Burano is known for producing lace, as well as for their quaint, brightly hued houses.

5. Discover Culture Through Food

Dive into Italian culture by cruising global and eating local! Venice is known for incredible fish and seafood, squid ink risotto, and delightfully bubbly Prosecco wine.